MANILA, PHILIPPINES | On December 10, the community of Sampaloc and Marian devotees gathered to witness the Pontifical Coronation of Our Lady of Loreto de Sampaloc, a 411-year-old venerated image revered as the patroness of aviation, the protectress of Christian homes against fires and calamities, and a mother and teacher to all students.

The celebration began with a Civic Reception organized by the City Government of Manila, which included the reading of a resolution by the City Council of Manila officially declaring Nuestra Señora de Loreto as the Patroness of Sampaloc. This was followed by the offering of a floral wreath at the historical marker of the Shrine, symbolizing the community’s deep devotion and gratitude.

The Holy Mass and the Rite of Pontifical Coronation were presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio, Most Rev. Charles John Brown, DD. Joining him in this solemn occasion were the Archbishop of Manila, His Eminence Jose F. Cardinal Advincula, DD, in choir dress, along with concelebrating bishops and clergy from various dioceses and religious orders.

According to tradition, angels transported the Holy House of Mary—where she was born, raised, and where the Annunciation took place—from Nazareth to Loreto, Italy. In Sampaloc, the Franciscan missionaries brought the image of Our Lady of Loreto in 1613, and since then, countless graces and blessings have been attributed to her intercession.

Adding to the historical significance of this event, the Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto in Sampaloc was also granted a Special Bond of Affinity to the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, further strengthening its connection to the universal Church.

Photo courtesy of Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto Network.